By Sylvie McCarthy
First Tee will be the featured nonprofit organization at THE PLAYERS Championship on Thursday, March 12.
First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of challenges. By integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience.
First Tee offers programs designed to meet students where they are. These programs range from introductory play and foundational character education to advanced leadership and career exploration initiatives. Programs include classes with focus on golf instruction and structured life-skills curriculum, after-school and summer camps, community partnerships and special events that combine play with purposeful personal growth.
Jeff Willoughby, executive director of First Tee-North Florida, said the work First Tee does helps their students to become well-rounded individuals.
“All programs are geared to make our children better people both on and off the course,” he said.
First Tee serves students ages 5-18 with content tailored developmentally across age groups. The goal is for each student to learn at an appropriate pace and build progressively toward leadership opportunities.
“We offer classes, camps, tournaments and social events that bring children together from all different backgrounds and golf experiences. Whether they are picking up a club for the first time or an established player, there is always something to do and most importantly learn here at First Tee — North Florida,” said Willoughby.
First Tee – North Florida is headquartered in St. Augustine near World Golf Village. They have programming sites across Clay, Duval, Flagler, St. Johns and additional school programs in Nassau, Putnam and Volusia counties.
Willoughby said golf can be an extremely effective way to learn some important life lessons.
“Golf is uniquely effective for teaching life lessons because it requires integrity, accountability, focus and resilience — all within the context of personal responsibility. Unlike many team sports where outcomes are shared, golf places each player in direct contact with their decisions and consequences. That makes it an ideal platform for kids to practice confidence, honesty, respect, integrity and emotional control in real time,” he said.
These lessons can then translate directly into academic settings, careers and personal relationships.
There are many different ways to get involved with First Tee. Families can register students for year-round programs, volunteers can coach, support events or serve as mentors and community partners and donors can help by sponsoring programs or providing financial support to ensure access for all kids.
“We welcome involvement from individuals and organizations who are passionate about youth development and positive community impact,” said Willoughby.
For more information on First Tee — North Florida go to www.firstteenorthflorida.org.